Layoffs have unfortunately become the norm since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. And while thousands of companies across the country are fighting to stay afloat in the pandemic’s aftermath, more American workers will continue to be laid off.
Another trend from the COVID-19 pandemic has been the rapid rise of the Great Resignation, where nearly 40 million Americans have quit their jobs for better opportunities. It’s now more important than ever for businesses to let their employees know that they are secure no matter what happens at their current job position. And outplacement is a great way to show that.
If you have been laid off recently, Carter Recruiting and Associates wants you to know that there are solutions out there for you to get back on your feet. One of the most popular ways to find work again is through outplacement services.
In this blog, our recruiting agency will tell you everything you need to know about what outplacement is, how it can benefit employees AND employers, and how you can get the ball rolling on taking advantage of these services.
WHAT IS OUTPLACEMENT?
Outplacement services provide assistance to laid-off workers who are looking for a new job. Services can include resume reviews, job search tips, 1-on-1 interview preparation, personalized coaching, career assessments and more. Recruiting agencies such as ourselves offer this to not only assist former employees who are in need of our help, but also to help save the brand and reputation of the employer.
OUTPLACEMENT COSTS AND WHO PAYS FOR IT
Most employment agencies have a fixed price per employee of the company, and the company pays for the services. The employee does not pay for this.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF OUTPLACEMENT FOR THE EMPLOYEE?
Outplacement services provide a solid point of focus for employees who are stunned by the fact that they have just been laid off. Oftentimes we see employees who are blindsided by the news and are immediately overwhelmed with the sudden turn of events. Having a recruiting agency on their side guiding them through the transition is not only comforting, but it’s also incredibly effective in helping workers find out what their next move should be.
Having an experienced coach in your ear at all times throughout the employment search is an invaluable tool that’ll not only help you emotionally handle the transition, but also bolster your professional skills when it comes to finding a new job. There are so many things to learn about how to conduct yourself in an interview, what attire to wear, how to network, how to create the perfect resume, and much more. All of these things can certainly feel overwhelming if you’re going in alone.
HOW DO OUTPLACEMENT SERVICES BENEFIT THE COMPANY?
1) It shows that your company is socially conscious. The COVID-19 pandemic was an incredibly stressful event for everyone involved, especially laid-off workers. If a company publicly announces these layoffs to the media or to their staff, outplacement services are usually mentioned and offered. Taking care of employees who are on their way around sends a strong message to the rest of the staff. It also greatly reduces the risk of litigation, which often comes up when outplacement services are not provided. During times like the Great Resignation, this is a message that needs to be sent to your employees.
2) It protects your company’s reputation
Approximately 90 percent of professionals say that they will not work for a company with a bad reputation. One of the quickest ways to derail your brand is to not protect your workers. Employees want to know that they are protected and cared for, and outplacement services are a great way to show that.
3) It creates a clear message that everyone on the team can follow
Communication is key in making any business work. Announcing to the entire staff your plans during these layoffs and the options that are in place for laid-off workers will keep these handlings internal, and will create less headache in the long run.
4) Directly supports your separated employees and helps them find work quicker
When a worker goes through a layoff, it can be a terrifying experience, and the sheer stress alone makes it significantly harder to find meaningful work again. Outplacement services give employees the power to focus on figuring out their next move, and it keeps the former employee and the employer on good terms.
5) It keeps business moving forward
Survivor syndrome is one of the most common occurrences in the workforce, and relates to the negative effects experienced by remaining workers after a major organizational change has been implemented. When an employee is constantly worried about if they’re going to be the next cut, frustration and resentment towards the job builds, which makes productivity dwindle. If everyone on the staff knows that outplacement services are available and that the company is willing to assist them in case more layoffs are needed, it immediately boosts morale and it proves that you’re a trustworthy and compassionate company.
HOW CAN I TAKE ADVANTAGE OF OUTPLACEMENT SERVICES RIGHT NOW?
Carter Recruiting and Associates has over 20 years of experience in providing outplacement services not just in Arkansas, but throughout the United States. We are more than happy to hop on the phone with you and give you all the information you need about outplacement.
Feel free to give us a call at (501) 812- 5627, or reach out to our owner Cherie Richardson by email, at cherie@crecruits.com.
Carter Recruiting and Associates is one of the largest independent recruiting and outplacement companies in Arkansas. Our headquarters, located in Little Rock and our satellite office in Conway, both service accounts nationwide. We have satisfied clients and references from some of the largest companies in the state. With over 50 collective years of experience in the recruiting business, we have a vast amount of resources and knowledge to ensure a job well done.
Cherie Richardson
President
Cherie is the owner and president of Carter Recruiting and Associates. She holds a BA in psychology from the University of Mississippi and has over 30 years of experience in the recruitment of executive and manufacturing professionals. Cherie’s work has been instrumental for new plant start-ups, as well as building and maintaining relationships throughout the region and state of Arkansas. She is a member of the National Association of Female Executives and the National Association of Women Business Owners.